Strange or foul odors can be a sign that something is amiss. If your home smells unpleasant, several issues may be causing this. Here are four places to check if you encounter strange odors in your home.
Check Damp Areas if You Notice a Strange Odor
If you detect a musty, earthy odor around the house, mold could be the culprit. This unpleasant smell can occur as mold begins to grow in a damp, poorly ventilated area.
Some molds are unhealthy to breathe and may cause respiratory illness or trigger allergies. When you find the source, clean and dry the area to remove mold growth.
If you cannot find the source of the mold, hire a qualified mold inspector who will examine your house thoroughly to find out where the smell is coming from.
Examine Electrical Sources if You Notice Odors in the Home
Faulty electrical fixtures can give off a strange smell like melting plastic. When your home smells unpleasant, it could be due to overheated electrical components. If you discover that the odor is coming from a particular switch or an outlet, shut off the breaker to that area and contact an electrician.
Have the Gas Line Checked
If a house inexplicably smells like sulfur, there could be a gas leak. Natural gas does not have an odor, but gas companies add a chemical that smells like sulfur or rotten eggs. If you notice this odor, open the windows, exit the house, and call the gas company. Don’t use gas-powered appliances until the gas company fixes the issue.
Inspect the Water Heater to Identify Strange Odors in the Home
Another problem that may generate a sulfur-like smell is your water heater. If your home smells strange when you use hot water, this could be due to an old anode rod, which can attract bacteria as it corrodes. The water heater’s anode rod typically needs a replacement every four or five years.
If you notice the odor of sulfur even while using cold water, hydrogen sulfide may be present in your water source. A water filtration system can eliminate the odor and make the water taste and smell fresh.
When you notice an unusual smell, don’t dismiss the issue. Peculiar odors are annoying at best and unsafe at worst. When dealing with foul smells in your home, call a professional to troubleshoot the problem and make repairs.
Reliable Real Estate Inspections offers inspection services to home buyers and sellers in Hilton Head and the surrounding areas. Contact us to request an appointment.